Composition

ABSTRACT

A solid cosmetic composition includes (i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%, present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

This application is a National Stage Application of PCT/GB2013/051357,filed 23 May 2013, which claims benefit of Serial No. 1209222.7, filed25 May 2012 in Great Britain and which applications are incorporatedherein by reference. To the extent appropriate, a claim of priority ismade to each of the above disclosed applications.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a solid product for use as a cosmetic,a process for producing said product, and a product prepared by themethod.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to products particularly those for use incontact with the human body.

Surfactant products such as bubble baths, shampoos, shower gels andtoothpastes are extremely well known cosmetic products and personal careproducts. These surfactant containing products are typically provided inthe form of liquid or pastes. They are sold in containers to the enduser and may be dispensed by the end user. However, the required use ofpackaging is a disadvantage. From an environmental perspective, wastepackaging is a significant problem, despite the availability ofrecycling.

There is also a desire to provide more ‘exciting’ products which add tothe bathing experience of a user. In other words, there is a desire toprovide products which offer to the user more than the functionaldelivery of a surfactant to be able to wash the hair or skin as desired.In particular, the market in bathing products which offer someinteraction or entertainment, particularly for children, has growndramatically in recent years.

In many products, there is a requirement for mild formulations for theskin and hair, which whilst required for adults, also meets the need ofchildren. In particular washing children's hair in the bath can be adifficult process. But providing a product they can play with as well aswash with, is a desirable outcome.

The present invention seeks to provide a solid cosmetic product whichcan be played with as well as washed with.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, there is provided a solid cosmetic compositioncomprising

(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;

(ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;

(iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and

(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,

present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

In a second aspect, there is provided a process for the production of asolid cosmetic composition comprising (i) corn starch; (ii) a bulkingagent; (iii) a surfactant; and (iv) glycerine, the process comprisingthe steps of:

a) mixing

-   -   (i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;    -   (ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;    -   (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and    -   (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,    -   each present in an amount by weight of the total composition;        b) forming the mixture of step a) into a predetermined shape.

In a third aspect, there is provided a product obtained or obtainable bya process for the production of a solid cosmetic composition comprising

(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;

(ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;

(iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and

(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,

present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

the process comprising the steps of:

a) mixing

-   -   (i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;    -   (ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;    -   (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and    -   (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,    -   each present in an amount by weight of the total composition;        b) forming the mixture of step a) into a predetermined shape.

For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the presentinvention are now discussed under appropriate section headings. However,the teachings under each section are not necessarily limited to eachparticular section.

Advantages

We have found that by providing a solid cosmetic composition comprisingthe specific components of the present invention, namely (i) corn starchin an amount of from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) bulking agent in anamount of from about 20% to about 50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount offrom about 5% to about 30%; and (iv) glycerine in an amount of fromabout 15% to about 30%, present in an amount by weight of the totalcomposition, we form a soft and putty like dough which is mouldable. Itcan be pushed and formed in to different shapes. A large bar of thecomposition in accordance with the present invention can be provided andpieces are then cut or pulled from the larger bar. They can be pressedin to different shapes and these then are used to wash with.

A suitable size piece of the present composition, for example a smallerpiece pulled from a larger bar, is dampened with water and massaged onto the body to clean the skin. It is rinsed away with water, leaving theskin clean and soft. The mixture can also be applied to the hair bymassaging a few times over the scalp to encourage a lather, thenmassaged further in to the hair and rinsed away to leave the hair clean.Any amount of the mixture left over can, if desired, be left on the sideof the bath or in a shower to be used later. The mixture does not need abottle or container to protect it as the form is that of a dough likesolid.

The present composition has the ability to stay soft in texture whenleft un-wrapped. This quality was surprising. The composition does notrequire a rigid container, such as a plastic bottle or pot, because theproduct had the consistency of a dough. Therefore the conventionalpackaging required for a liquid product is not needed. The inventiondoes not require any form of wrapping such as cellophane to protect itfrom an environment, which may be dusty such as in shop or store when itis being retailed. However, such a covering may be provided, ifrequired.

The present composition is provided from a blend of well-known andcosmetically acceptable ingredients. The present composition does notrequire the presence of un-desirable ingredients, such as cosmeticpreservatives. It is a dough like solid which may have a minimal watercontent, and which consequently does not require preservation in the waythat high water content products do.

By addition of optional colours and fragrances, the present inventionprovides a dough like product which is colourful, fragrant andmouldable. This product is extremely desirable for children.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Composition

As discussed herein, in one aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a solid cosmetic composition comprising (i) corn starch in anamount of from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) bulking agent in an amountof from about 20% to about 50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount of fromabout 5% to about 30%; and (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15%to about 30%, present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

The solid products of the present invention are compositions which cansubstantially sustain their physical shape when unsupported by externalmeans, e.g. packaging etc. Thus, they are considered to be solid, solidlike, in solid form or in solid-like form at room temperature. For theavoidance of doubt the solid product must remain substantially solid atup to 30° C.

By solid-like, it is understood that some materials are considered on aday to day basis to be solid, yet over an extremely long period of time,may alter in shape, e.g. amorphous materials such as glass etc. However,they are considered to be solid-like as, for the purpose they fulfil,they are solid.

Due to the solid form of the compositions of the present invention,external packaging is not required to maintain the shape of thecomposition.

Corn Starch

As discussed herein, the present composition, process, use and method,utilise corn starch. The term ‘corn starch’ used herein refers to thestarch of corn (also known as maize) [Zea mays] grain and is obtainedfrom the endosperm of the corn kernel. Corn starch is also known in somecountries as corn flour or maize starch. Corn starch is not to beconfused with cornmeal. Cornmeal is a coarse flour ground from driedmaize or corn. In the United Kingdom corn starch is known as corn flour.Corn starch has mainly been used in foods, where it is used as athickener for sauces and custards. In cosmetics it has been mainly usedin talcum powders for babies.

Without being bound by theory, it is understood that the presentcomposition provides it desirable dough like form based on the principleof using gels and mucilage to form a base, in to which the bulking agent(such as talc) and a surfactant is dispersed to form the dough.Glycerine is added to prevent the mixture from drying and becoming hardand non mouldable. Glycerine does not desiccate as water would, if usedin the formulation, and so the presence of glycerine ensures thecomposition has a dough like soft texture.

Gels or mucilages are dispersions of ingredients, generally with water,which provide gel-like textures. They are often used in cosmeticproducts. Water, an essential ingredient for the skin, is held insuspension by the other ingredients. Gels and mucilages can be created,by using various ingredients. Seaweeds such as agar or carrageen,cellulose from synthetic cellulose such as hydroxyethylcellulose orclays such as bentonite, give robust gel like mixtures. Herbs such asmarsh mallow (Althea officinalis) or flax (Linum usitatissimum) givemoisture retentive mucilage. Gels produced in this way are verycompatible with the skin and soften and moisturise it. The herbsmentioned, in particular, have been used for centuries to benefit theskin because of their mucilagenous properties.

The use of mucilages is advantageous in cosmetics where theirmoisturising quality helps the skin. Mild and effective, they are a typeof ingredient that can be used in products for children and theirmildness has been exploited for the basis of the present invention.

Corn starch with its long history of safe use in cosmetics and foodprovides an excellent base to make a solid form to carry surfactantwhich will cleanse the skin and the hair. The mucilaginous, thickeningeffect it provides carries the other ingredients within the composition.Its mildness and the ability to help the skin absorb moisture are alsokey features. Without being bound by theory, it is understood that thepresent composition provides a mucilage obtained from corn starch—thissystem provides a high quality means for binding other ingredients. Inuse, in contact with water the corn starch of the present composition isdiluted and gives a milky solution, which softens the skin.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the corn starch ispresent in an amount of from about 20% to about 40% by weight of thetotal composition and is present in an amount to provide the desiredsolid cosmetic composition. In one aspect the corn starch is present inan amount of from about 25% to about 40%, such as an amount of fromabout 30% to about 40%, such as an amount of from about 30% to about35%, such as an amount of approximately 32% by weight of the totalcomposition.

Bulking Agent

As discussed herein, the present composition, process, use and method,utilise a bulking agent. As would be understood by one skilled in theart, the term ‘bulking agent’ used herein refers to a material which issolid and contributes to the mass and form of the solid cosmeticcomposition of the present invention. Typically the bulking agent willbe a particulate material. For example the bulking agent may be an inertparticulate material. In one aspect the bulking agent may be insolublein water. In further aspects the bulking agent may be an insolubleparticulate material. Yet further the bulking agent may be an insolubleinert material. Preferred bulking agents for use in the presentinvention are inert particulate insoluble materials.

As would be appreciated by one skilled in the art by the term “inert” itis meant a material which is not cosmetically active.

As would be appreciated by one skilled in the art by the term“particulate” it is meant a material which is predominantly made up ofparticles.

By the term “insoluble” it is meant that the material has a solubilityin water at 35° C. of less than 1 g/100 mL, such as less than 0.5 g/100mL, such as less than 0.1 g/100 mL, such as less than 0.05 g/100 mL,such as less than 0.02 g/100 mL.

The bulking agent, such as the talc, within the formulation, givessolidity to the form of the product. It should be inert and notirritating.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the bulking agentis present in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of thetotal composition and is present in an amount to provide the desiredsolid cosmetic composition. In one aspect the bulking agent is presentin an amount of from about 20% to about 40%, such as an amount of fromabout 25% to about 40%, such as an amount of from about 30% to about40%, such as an amount of from about 30% to about 35%, such as an amountof approximately 32% by weight of the total composition.

It is desirable that the bulking agent (such as an inert particulatebulking agent) does not impart a coarseness to the cosmetic compositionof the present invention. If the particle size of the bulking agent(such as an inert particulate bulking agent) were too great, a lessdesirable feeling would be experienced by the user when applying theproduct to their skin or hair. In one aspect the bulking agent (such asan inert particulate bulking agent) has an average particle size of nogreater than 5 μm, such as no greater than 4 μm, such as no greater than3 μm, such as no greater than 2 μm, such as no greater than 1 μm. Theaverage particle size may be measured in accordance with ISO Standard9276-5 (Representation of results of particle size analysis).

In one preferred aspect the bulking agent is a clay. In one furtheraspect the bulking agent is selected from cosmetically acceptable salts,minerals, clays, titanium dioxide and mixtures thereof.

In one highly preferred aspect the bulking agent is selected from talc,kaolin, calamine, magnesium carbonate and mixtures thereof. Preferablythe bulking agent is talc. Thus the present invention may furtherprovide a solid cosmetic composition comprising (i) corn starch; (ii)talc (iii) a surfactant; and (iv) glycerine.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the talc may bepresent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50% by weight of thetotal composition and is present in an amount to provide the desiredsolid cosmetic composition. In one aspect the talc is present in anamount of from about 20% to about 40%, such as an amount of from about25% to about 40%, such as an amount of from about 30% to about 40%, suchas an amount of from about 30% to about 35%, such as an amount ofapproximately 32% by weight of the total composition.

Surfactant

The solid cosmetic product of the present invention comprises asurfactant. The surfactant is primarily selected from those surfactantsknown in the art to be suitable for application to the skin or hair. Inone embodiment, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting ofsodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate cocamide diethanolamine,lauryl betaine, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and mixtures thereof. In oneembodiment, the surfactant is sodium laureth sulfate. Thus the presentinvention may further provide a solid cosmetic composition comprising(i) corn starch; (ii) bulking agent (iii) sodium laureth sulfate; and(iv) glycerine. The present invention may yet further provide a solidcosmetic composition comprising (i) corn starch; (ii) talc; (iii) sodiumlaureth sulfate; and (iv) glycerine.

In one aspect the surfactant used may be sodium laureth sulphate as itprovides an effective cleansing action for the skin and the hair. It maybe combined with other surfactants, for example sodium lauroylsarcosinate. This blend with sodium laureth sulphate provides extramildness and less potential for irritation, if required. Thus in oneembodiment, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting ofsodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and mixturesthereof. In one embodiment, the surfactant is sodium laureth sulphateand sodium lauroyl sarcosinate.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the surfactant ispresent in an amount of from about 5% to about 30% by weight of thetotal composition and is present in an amount to provide the desiredsolid cosmetic composition. In one embodiment, the surfactant is presentin an amount of from about 5% to about 25%, such as in an amount of fromabout 5% to about 20%, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about15%, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 10%, such as in anamount of approximately 8% by weight of the total composition.

The surfactant of the solid cosmetic composition provides thecomposition with the ability to achieve its required purpose. Thus for ashampoo, the surfactant removes dirt and grease from the user's hair.Thus for a body soap, the surfactant removes dirt and grease from theuser's skin.

In one embodiment, the surfactant product is a shampoo. In oneembodiment, the surfactant product is a shower gel. In one embodiment,the surfactant product is a facial wash. In one embodiment, thesurfactant product is a bubble bath.

Glycerine

The surfactant product of the present invention also comprisesglycerine. Glycerine is also known as glycerine, glycerol andpropane-1,2,3-triol.

Glycerine is an essential ingredient of the composition of the presentinvention. Glycerine is known to be mild and has a long history of safeuse within cosmetics. Glycerine is a humectant, which is a descriptiveterm for its ability to help the skin to absorb water. The water mixedwith the product during use is therefore able to benefit the skin andsoften it further by the presence of glycerine. This ingredient furtherprevents the composition for drying and becoming hard and crumbly. Thetexture of the invention is protected by the presence of glycerine inthe formula.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the glycerine ispresent in an amount of from about 15% to about 30% by weight of thetotal composition and is present in an amount to achieve the desiredaims of the present invention. In one aspect glycerine is present in anamount of from about 20% to about 30%, such as from about 22% to about28%, such as from about 24% to about 26%, such as approximately 25%based on the weight of the total composition.

Process

As discussed herein, the invention provides a process for the productionof a solid cosmetic composition comprising (i) corn starch in an amountof from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) bulking agent in an amount of fromabout 20% to about 50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5%to about 30%; and (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about30%, present in an amount by weight of the total composition, theprocess comprising the steps of: a) mixing (i) corn starch in an amountof from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) bulking agent in an amount of fromabout 20% to about 50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5%to about 30%; and (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about30%, present in an amount by weight of the total composition. b) formingthe mixture of step a) into a predetermined shape.

The shape of the solid products of the present invention is not limited.It may be that the solid products are provided with a shape which wouldbe aesthetically pleasing and/or which aids in the use of the product.For example, it may be that the solid product is produced in such amanner so that it is formed in a shape which is ergonomically acceptableto the user. Therefore, in one embodiment of the process of the presentinvention, the mixture of step a) is pressed into a mould, and thenturned out to produce the solid product. The product may also be formedinto long shapes or rolls. For example, solid cosmetic composition inaccordance with the present invention may be pushed through a die toform an extruded shape. Alternatively the product can be manipulated,for example by hand, into a roll. Sections may then be cut from the rollor the extruded product to provide an ergonomically acceptable shapeslice for the end user.

As described herein, the solid product may further comprise one or morecosmetically acceptable additives. In one embodiment, the processfurther comprises the step of combining with the mixture of step a) oneor more cosmetically acceptable additives as defined herein.

The present invention also provides a product obtained or obtainable bya process for the production of a solid cosmetic composition comprising(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%; (ii)bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%; (iii)surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and (iv)glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%, present in anamount by weight of the total composition, the process comprising thesteps of: a) mixing (i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% toabout 40%; (ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%, present inan amount by weight of the total composition, b) forming the mixture ofstep a) into a predetermined shape.

Preferred Compositions & Additional Components

The solid product of the present invention may also comprise one or morecosmetically acceptable additives. The person skilled in the art isaware of a range of cosmetically acceptable additives which are suitablefor incorporation into such compositions. For example, binders, fillers,opacifiers, perfumes, colours, fragrances, decorative items and mixturesthereof. Preferably the solid cosmetic composition comprises at leastone additional component selected from colours, fragrances and mixturesthereof.

The combined amount of cosmetically acceptable additives is preferablyfrom about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 0.1% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 1% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 1% to about 4% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 1% to about 3% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 1% to about 2% by weight of the total composition.

The combined amount of colours and fragrances is preferably from about0.1% to about 10% by weight of the total composition, such as from about0.1% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such as from about0.5% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such as from about1% to about 5% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 1%to about 4% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 1% toabout 3% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 1% toabout 2% by weight of the total composition.

Fruit and herb extracts and juices, vegetable oils and essential oilsare all compatible with the composition. Colours, both naturally derivedand synthetic can be used to colour the product. Cosmetic colour isadded to the invention to form bright colourful shapes and bars of themixture. This colour can be a blend of synthetic cosmetic pigments, suchas FD&C Blue No1, FD&C Red No 4 and others. Also naturally derivedcolours such as gardenia extract or chloropyl extract.

The amount of colour is preferably from about 0.01% to about 10% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.01% to about 5% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.01% to about 4% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.01% to about 3% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.01% to about 2% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.02% to about 2% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.05% to about 2% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.1% to about 2% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.2% to about 2% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.2% to about 1% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.2% to about 0.8%by weight of the total composition, such as from about 0.2% to about0.6% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 0.4% toabout 0.6% by weight of the total composition.

To discourage children from ingesting the composition, a bittering agentcan be added to ensure that if the mixture is taken in to the mouth,that it will not be swallowed. Materials such as Bitrex or DenatoniumBenzoate may be added (Bitrex is a registered trademark of JohnsonMatthey-Macfarlan Smith of Edinburgh Scotland for the product denatoniumbenzoate.) Grapefruit seed extract, which is from the pulp ofgrapefruit, may also be added as it gives a bitter taste. Other agentsof a similar action could be included.

The amount of bittering agent is preferably from about 0.005% to about0.5% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 0.005% toabout 0.4% by weight of the total composition, such as from about 0.005%to about 0.3% by weight of the total composition, such as from about0.005% to about 0.2% by weight of the total composition, such as fromabout 0.005% to about 0.15% by weight of the total composition, such asfrom about 0.005% to about 0.1% by weight of the total composition, suchas from about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight of the total composition,such as from about 0.02% to about 0.1% by weight of the totalcomposition, such as from about 0.03% to about 0.1% by weight of thetotal composition, such as from about 0.04% to about 0.1% by weight ofthe total composition, such as from about 0.04% to about 0.08% by weightof the total composition, such as from about 0.05% to about 0.07% byweight of the total composition.

In one embodiment, the cosmetically acceptable additives are selectedfrom the group consisting of essential oils, vitamins, fragrances,colourings, clays, decorative articles and mixtures thereof.

Fragrance may be added to the product to make the experience of usingthe present composition more pleasant. combining essential oils such aslavender, chamomile or rose absolute into fragrances for the inventionensures the user has a pleasant washing experience.

The amount of fragrances is preferably from about 0.1% to about 10% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.1% to about 5% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.1% to about 4% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.5% to about 5% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 1% to about 5% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.5% to about 4% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.5% to about 3% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.5% to about 2% byweight of the total composition, such as from about 0.5% to about 1.5%by weight of the total composition.

The essential oils may be selected based on the fragrance desired, skintype to be treated and other effects desired based on the well-knownproperties of essential oils. The addition of essential oils, when takenin to the nose, are known to alter mood. For example, essential oils areknown to create effects of drowsiness or stimulating the senses. Manywell documented effects can be achieved by the use of essential oils.

In one embodiment, the one or more essential oils present in the solidproduct are selected from Tarragon, Lemon myrtle, Jasmin, Ylang ylang,Labdanum, Lemongrass, Rose otto, Grapefruit, Patchouli, Rosemary,Armois, Lemon, Neroli, Sweet violet, Lavender, Orange 50 fold, Vanilla,Peppermint, Benzoin, Hydrangia, Litsea Cubeba, Cardamon, Tonka, andChamomile blue. In one embodiment, the one or more essential oilspresent in the solid product are selected from Tarragon, Lemon myrtle,Labdunum, and Lemon.

Vitamins, particularly B, C and E are very beneficial for the skin.Vitamin rich ingredients such as Wheatgerm oil can also be used todeliver vitamins on to the skin. In a one embodiment, the vitamins areselected from vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E and mixtures thereof. Itwill be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the vitamin may beprovided from any suitable source. For example the vitamin(s) may beprovided from a synthetic source or from incorporation into the solidproduct of a material, such as a natural material, that has a highvitamin content.

The ingredients of the present invention do not require cosmeticpreservatives. The use of cosmetic preservatives can increase thepotential to irritate the skin.

The above ranges provide preferred amounts of each of the components.Each of these ranges may be taken alone or combined with one or moreother component ranges to provide a preferred aspect of the invention.

A highly preferred composition of the present invention or for use inthe present invention is a solid cosmetic composition comprising

(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;

(ii) talc in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;

(iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and

(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,

present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

A highly preferred composition of the present invention or for use inthe present invention is a solid cosmetic composition comprising

(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;

(ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;

(iii) sodium laureth sulphate in an amount of from about 5% to about30%; and

(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,

present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

A highly preferred composition of the present invention or for use inthe present invention is a solid cosmetic composition comprising

(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%;

(ii) talc in an amount of from about 20% to about 50%;

(iii) sodium laureth sulphate in an amount of from about 5% to about30%; and

(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%,

present in an amount by weight of the total composition.

Method

In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a methodcomprising contacting the skin of a user with water in which the solidproduct as defined herein has dissolved or in which the solid product asdefined herein is dissolving. In a typical method water in run in to thebath at acceptable temperature. The user immerses their body in thewater and the solid product is immersed in the water. The user thenwashes their hair or body as described herein.

It can be seen from the description of the invention and it's propertiesthat a mixture such as this will be fun and pleasurable, particularlyfor children. Having a dough like mixture to play with in the bath orshower which children can shape and mould, which can then be used towash their skin and hair will be a great encouragement to wash as wellas a fun experience at bath time.

Further Aspects

The present invention further provides broad aspects wherein the amountsof (i) corn starch; (ii) a bulking agent; (iii) a surfactant; and/or(iv) glycerine are not limited in the manner described herein.

In a first broad aspect, there is provided a solid cosmetic compositioncomprising

(i) corn starch;

(ii) a bulking agent;

(iii) a surfactant; and

(iv) glycerine.

In a second broad aspect, there is provided a process for the productionof a solid cosmetic composition comprising (i) corn starch; (ii) abulking agent; (iii) a surfactant; and (iv) glycerine, the processcomprising the steps of:

a) mixing

-   -   (i) corn starch;    -   (ii) a bulking agent;    -   (iii) a surfactant; and    -   (iv) glycerine;        b) forming the mixture of step a) into a predetermined shape.

In a third broad aspect, there is provided a product obtained orobtainable by a process for the production of a solid cosmeticcomposition comprising (i) corn starch; (ii) a bulking agent; (iii) asurfactant; and (iv) glycerine, the process comprising the steps of:

a) mixing (i) corn starch; (ii) a bulking agent; (iii) a surfactant; and(iv) glycerine;

b) forming the mixture of step a) into a predetermined shape.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that in each of thefirst broad aspect, the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect,the corn starch may be present in any suitable amount to provide thedesired solid cosmetic composition. In each of the first broad aspect,the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect, the corn starch maybe present in an amount of from about 5% to about 60%, such as in anamount of from about 10% to about 50%, such as an amount of from about20% to about 40%, such as an amount of from about 25% to about 40%, suchas an amount of from about 30% to about 40%, such as an amount of fromabout 30% to about 35%, such as an amount of approximately 32% by weightof the total composition.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that in each of thefirst broad aspect, the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect,the bulking agent may be present in any suitable amount to provide thedesired solid cosmetic composition. In each of the first broad aspect,the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect, the bulking agentmay be present in an amount of from about 5% to about 60%, such as in anamount of from about 10% to about 50%, such as an amount of from about20% to about 50%, such as an amount of from about 20% to about 40%, suchas an amount of from about 25% to about 40%, such as an amount of fromabout 30% to about 40%, such as an amount of from about 30% to about35%, such as an amount of approximately 32% by weight of the totalcomposition.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that in each of thefirst broad aspect, the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect,the surfactant may be present in any suitable amount to provide thedesired solid cosmetic composition. In each of the first broad aspect,the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect, the surfactant maybe present in an amount of from about 5% to about 50% such as in anamount of from about 5% to about 40%, such as in an amount of from about5% to about 30%, such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 25%,such as in an amount of from about 5% to about 20%, such as in an amountof from about 5% to about 15%, such as in an amount of from about 5% toabout 10%, such as in an amount of approximately 8% by weight of thetotal composition. In one embodiment, the surfactant, or the mixture ofsurfactants, is present in an amount of from about 5% to about 30% byweight of the total composition.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that in each of thefirst broad aspect, the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect,the glycerine may be present in any suitable amount to provide thedesired solid cosmetic composition. In each of the first broad aspect,the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect, the glycerine may bepresent in an amount of from about 5% to about 50%, such as from about5% to about 40%, such as from about 10% to about 40%, such as from about10% to about 35%, such as from about 10% to about 30%, such as fromabout 15% to about 30%, such as from about 20% to about 30%, such asfrom about 22% to about 28%, such as from about 24% to about 26%, suchas approximately 25% based on the weight of the total composition.

Each of the amounts of (i) corn starch (ii) bulking agent (iii)surfactant and (iv) glycerine recited herein in respect of the firstbroad aspect, the second broad aspect and the third broad aspect, may becombined to preferred compositions. For example the composition maycontain

(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 5% to about 60%;

(ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about 5% to about 60%;

(iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 50%; and

(iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 5% to about 50%,

by weight of the total composition.

Examples

The invention will now be described with reference to the followingnon-limiting example.

A solid product having the following composition was prepared. Theformula is as follows:

Batch Size: 100.0 Formula % Raw Material Type Grams 32.60 Corn starch32.60 32.60 Talc 32.60 8.00 Sodium laureth sulfate 8.00 0.50 Crocinextract (colour) 0.50 25.24 Glycerine 25.24 0.06 Bitrex 0.06 1.00Fragrance 1.00 100.00 100.000

Method:

1. the sodium laureth sulphate is combined with the colour (Crocinextract) and blended.

2. the glycerine, Bitrex and fragrance is added to this.

3. the talc, then finally the corn starch is added to form a softdough-like texture.

4. the mix is then left to settle for thirty minutes. Then it is finallymoulded or shaped into rolls.

The final product is used in a bath or shower. The user breaks from thelarger mass of product enough material for a single use. The product isrubbed between the hands to form lather. The lather is then applied tothe hair and to the body to wash both.

Various modifications and variations of the present invention will beapparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scopeand spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been describedin connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should beunderstood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited tosuch specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of thedescribed modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious tothose skilled in chemistry, biology or related fields are intended to bewithin the scope of the following claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A solid cosmetic composition comprising (i)corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) bulkingagent in an amount of from about 25% to about 50%, wherein the bulkingagent is talc; (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about30%, wherein the surfactant is sodium laureth sulfate; and (iv)glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%, present in anamount by weight of the total composition, and wherein the solidcosmetic composition is a mouldable cosmetic compound.
 2. A solidcosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein the corn starch ispresent in an amount of from about 25% to about 40% by weight of thetotal composition.
 3. A solid cosmetic composition according to claim 1,wherein the bulking agent is present in an amount of from about 25% toabout 40% by weight of the total composition.
 4. A solid cosmeticcomposition according to claim 1, wherein the surfactant is present inan amount of from about 5% to about 25% by weight of the totalcomposition.
 5. A solid cosmetic composition according to claim 1,wherein the glycerine is present in an amount of from about 20% to about30% by weight of the total composition.
 6. A solid cosmetic compositionaccording to claim 1 comprising (i) corn starch in an amount of fromabout 25% to about 40%; (ii) bulking agent in an amount of from about40% to about 50%; (iii) surfactant in an amount of from about 5% toabout 25%; and (iv) glycerine in an amount of from about 20% to about30%, present in an amount by weight of the total composition and whereinthe solid cosmetic composition is a mouldable cosmetic composition.
 7. Asolid cosmetic composition according to claim 1, further comprising atleast one additional component selected from binders, fillers,opacifiers, perfumes, colours, fragrances, decorative items and mixturesthereof.
 8. A solid cosmetic composition according to claim 7, furthercomprising at least one additional component selected from colours,fragrances and mixtures thereof.
 9. A solid cosmetic compositionaccording to claim 8, wherein the combined amount of colours andfragrances is from about 1% to about 5% by weight of the totalcomposition.
 10. A process for the production of a solid cosmeticcomposition as defined in claim 1 comprising the steps of: a) mixing:(i) corn starch in an amount of from about 20% to about 40%; (ii) abulking agent in an amount of from about 25% to about 50%; (iii)surfactant in an amount of from about 5% to about 30%; and (iv)glycerine in an amount of from about 15% to about 30%, each present inan amount by weight of the total composition; and b) forming the mixtureof step a) into a predetermined shape.
 11. A product obtained orobtainable by the process of claim
 10. 12. A cosmetic method comprisingcontacting the skin or hair of a user with water into which is dissolveda solid cosmetic composition as defined in claim 1.